Finland’s government introduced emergency legislation on Tuesday aimed at preventing asylum seekers from crossing its extensive and often snow-covered border with Russia. This move is in response to what Helsinki perceives as Russia’s politically motivated actions following the Ukraine conflict.
Finland had already closed its 1,340 km (830 mile) border last year after noticing an increase in migrants from countries like Syria and Somalia. This surge happened soon after Finland joined NATO, an alliance that supports Ukraine against Russian aggression.
While the Kremlin denies any wrongdoing and claims these allegations are part of a Western smear campaign, Finland remains cautious. Despite only a few dozen migrants arriving from Russia this year, compared to 1,300 last year, Finnish authorities believe the new law is necessary. Warmer weather could make travel easier, and there is a possibility that Russia might encourage more migration. Some migrants had entered Russia on student visas.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized the need for robust border security at a news conference, stating, “It is the government’s duty to ensure the security of the borders, Finland, and Finns in all situations.” He also expressed the need for more effective EU legislation to tackle this issue and hoped that Finland’s efforts would lead to broader European solutions.
The proposed law, put forward by Finland’s right-wing coalition, admits that rejecting migrants without processing their asylum applications would violate international human rights commitments. However, the law would be temporary and only used in exceptional circumstances, according to Orpo.
Finland’s eastern border is the longest shared by both the EU and NATO with Russia. Helsinki is advocating for the EU to permit exceptions when a member state faces targeted migration to destabilize its society. Pushback practices have been condemned by the European Court of Human Rights in countries like Poland, Hungary, Italy, and Greece.
The new legislation requires a significant majority in Finland’s parliament, needing five-sixths of the votes for approval, making its passage uncertain.
The bill would allow border authorities to turn back asylum seekers from Russia, using force if necessary. However, it includes exceptions for children and disabled individuals, ensuring they are not subjected to these measures.